By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has expressed grief over the killing of 10 police officers during a gun battle with suspected bandits in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police officer were killed in an encounter which occurred at about 9:25 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, along the Rafin Makuku axis, when the operatives intercepted a heavily armed group of suspected bandits reportedly moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.

Iniedu also confirmed that at least 17 suspected bandits were neutralised during the confrontation, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were destroyed.

He, however, said the police also suffered significant casualties, with 10 personnel killed in the line of duty and two others sustaining injuries.

Two civilians were also killed during the encounter

In reaction, IGP Disu mourned the loss of the officers while extending his condolences to their families and loved ones.

Iniedu quoted Disu as describing the deaths as painful loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation while stressing that the officers paid the ultimate price while protecting the people they swore to serve.

The IGP also assured the families of the fallen personnel that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and would continue to be honoured by the Force.

The Force Public Relations Officer added that the remains of the deceased officers had been evacuated to Birnin Kebbi, while the affected area had been brought under control.

He also added that additional security personnel had been deployed to reinforce the area and sustain operations aimed at pursuing fleeing members of the criminal group.

“The Force also assured the bereaved families and the injured personnel of continued support, while pledging to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the attack.

“The police reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations against banditry and other criminal activities in the affected areas.